LEADERS BY DESIGN: The Innovation Mindset of Newfoundland and Labrador Meagan Kay-Fowlow, President, Co. Innovation Centre
As a proud Newfoundlander and Labradorian, I’ve always believed that innovation isn’t just something we do— it’s embedded in who we are. Our history and culture have been shaped by the challenges of living in one of the most remote and rugged environments in the world. Harsh and unpredictable weather, vast geographic distances, and the reality of remote communities spread across rugged terrain and expansive coastlines have defined our way of life for centuries. But instead of holding us back, these challenges have instilled in us a resilience and creativity that runs deep in the DNA of our people.
Generations before us didn’t just survive—they thrived—by finding practical solutions to the challenges they faced. Whether it was crafting tools from scarce materials, building tight-knit communities in isolated places, or braving the unpredictable North Atlantic, our ancestors turned necessity into the mother of invention. This ability to innovate is why Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are renowned for their ingenuity.
Today, that same ingenuity is powering our future as Newfoundland and Labrador positions itself in the global economy. While our resource sectors—oil, gas, renewable energy, mining, and fisheries—remain vital, the economic landscape is evolving. We’re seeing remarkable advancements in digitalization and technology, particularly in areas like remote operations. These innovations don’t appear out of thin air—they’re deeply rooted in our lived experience of adapting and thriving in resource-constrained, remote environments.
Open office space at Co. Innovation Centre
Our people and companies are driving solutions to global challenges. Whether revolutionizing remote operations in energy and mining, harnessing technology to monitor and protect fragile ecosystems, rousing cutting-edge tools to improve health outcomes and combat financial crime, the world is turning to us for answers. It’s no coincidence that we excel in these areas; they reflect the same problem-solving mindset and determination that have shaped our way of life for generations.
But innovation in Newfoundland and Labrador isn’t just about technology—it’s a way of thinking. It’s about seeing possibilities where others see problems, finding opportunities in obstacles, and continually pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
As we step boldly into a future defined by change, I believe our legacy of resilience and creative problem-solving will spark new ideas, drive new businesses, and unlock new opportunities.
